The Alzheimer's Society will deliver support services for residents suffering from dementia in Kingston, it was revealed yesterday (June 18).

Kingston Council (RBK) said that the renowned dementia charity — regarded as the UK's leading dementia support and research charity — would support residents and carers dealing with dementia from August 1, "on behalf of the council and NHS Kingston Clinical Commissioning Group."

The move continues the progress of RBK's five-year dementia strategy, which has included awareness training for businesses and a directory of dementia support services in the borough since its launch in 2015.

RBK said it hoped to foster a "dementia-friendly" community in the borough, which the Alzheimer's Society define as one where people with dementia are understood, respected, supported, and confident they can contribute to community life.

According to the council, there are more than 1,700 people currently living with dementia in Kingston.

Councillor Kim Bailey, Kingston Council’s portfolio holder with responsibility for Public Health, praised the Alzheimer's Society for their work ahead of the start date for their full inclusion into RBK's strategy to deal with the disease.

"We’re delighted to be working with the Alzheimer’s Society on the dementia development and support service.

"They do incredible work and we’re confident they will deliver terrific support for people in Kingston with dementia, as well as helping equip families and carers in the best possible way to assist those with the condition," Cllr Bailey said.

Meanwhile Hilary Dodd, Services Manager for Alzheimer's Society in Kingston, reflected on the importance of care provision for dementia sufferers.

"A diagnosis of dementia can be a daunting and bewildering experience and many people don’t know there’s support available or how to access it.

"From the beginning of someone’s journey with dementia, right the way through the condition - dementia advisers and dementia support workers are there to support and provide information in the right way, at the right time and signpost people to additional support," Ms Dodd said.

"We are really pleased to be working with Kingston Council and Kingston Clinical Commissioning Group to deliver these new dementia support services in the borough, which will enable us to support a larger number of people affected by dementia," she added.

If you are concerned that you or a family member is getting increasingly forgetful and may be developing dementia, you can book an appointment with your GP or Practice Nurse for a chat about this; or visit NHS Choices for further information: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/dementia/about.